How Much Entrance Matting Do You Need for a Commercial Space?

When designing a commercial space, entrance matting may not be the first thing on your mind, but it plays a crucial role in maintaining cleanliness, ensuring safety, and protecting flooring investments. The right amount of entrance matting helps prevent dirt, moisture, and debris from being tracked inside, which can reduce cleaning costs and enhance the longevity of your floors. But how much matting is enough? Here’s a guide to help you determine the right coverage for your commercial space.

The 80/20 Rule for Dirt Control

Studies show that 80% of the dirt and moisture in a building is brought in by foot traffic. A well-designed entrance matting system can capture up to 90% of that debris within the first few steps. However, achieving this level of effectiveness requires installing the right type and amount of matting.

Two-Zone Matting System

To determine how much entrance matting you need, consider implementing a two-zone system. This approach ensures maximum dirt and moisture control:

Zone 1: Outdoor Scraper Mats

• These are placed outside the entrance and are the first line of defence.
• They scrape off large debris like mud, gravel, and snow from shoes.
• Recommended Length: 6 to 10 feet, depending on the level of exposure to outdoor elements.

Zone 2: Interior Mats

• Located in the vestibule, interior entrance, or high-traffic areas.
• These mats capture smaller particles and moisture that pass through Zone 1.
• Recommended Length: 8 to 15 feet, depending on traffic volume and climate.

Factors to Consider

The total length of matting you need depends on several factors:

Traffic Volume

• High-traffic areas, such as shopping malls or office complexes, require more extensive matting.
• A rule of thumb is to provide 16-18 feet of combined matting to allow for at least six footsteps per visitor.

Climate

• Wet or snowy climates necessitate longer matting systems to handle increased moisture.
• In dry climates, shorter mats may suffice but should still provide sufficient debris capture.

Entrance Design

• Single-door entrances may require less matting than revolving doors or multiple-door systems.
• Consider the width of the entrance to ensure adequate coverage across all access points.

Industry Requirements

• Industries like healthcare and food service may require specialized matting systems for hygiene and safety compliance.

Measuring Your Space

To calculate the amount of matting, measure the width of the entrance and multiply it by the desired mat length. For example, a 6-foot-wide entrance with a 20-foot matting length would require 120 square feet of matting.

Benefits of Proper Entrance Matting

Investing in sufficient matting offers several benefits:

• Cost Savings: Reduces cleaning expenses and extends flooring lifespan.
• Safety: Minimizes slip-and-fall risks by reducing moisture accumulation.
• Aesthetic Appeal: Maintains a cleaner, more professional look.

Conclusion

For most commercial spaces, a minimum of 16 to 18 feet of combined entrance matting across the two zones is a good starting point. However, tailoring your matting system to your specific needs—traffic volume, climate, and industry—ensures optimal performance. By investing in the right matting, you protect your space, reduce maintenance costs, and create a safer, more welcoming environment for employees and visitors alike. By investing in the right matting, you protect your space, reduce maintenance costs, and create a safer, more welcoming environment for employees and visitors alike.

Lets get started. Request a quote today!